Energy Concentrator With Support For Material Heated Patents (Class 126/680)
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Publication number: 20120199116Abstract: A solar collector, includes a glass sheet; a metal frame or another glass sheet and a metal frame; a seal between the glass sheet or sheets and the metal frame; the metal frame including a wall offset with respect to the seal and/or a wall connected to the seal by a low thermal conductivity material. The invention provides a solar collector which is compact and simple and improves solar radiation transmission.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2010Publication date: August 9, 2012Applicant: SAINT-GOBAIN GLASS FRANCEInventors: Julien Sellier, René Gy
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Patent number: 8215298Abstract: A solar module system includes a self-supporting structure and at least one solar module element or reflector element which can be arranged on the support structure. The support structure includes a plurality of juxtaposed support profiles in the form of self-supporting hollow chamber profiles, which have front parabolic concentrator reflector functional surfaces and solar module functional surfaces on the side facing away from the front. The system is used e.g. for photovoltaic systems outdoors or on buildings.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2007Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Inventor: Fritz Klotz
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Publication number: 20120067336Abstract: An adjustable device for supporting a sun-tracking unit includes a framework and first and second supporting elements. The framework includes lower and upper portions. The lower portion of the framework includes two transverse long tubes and a longitudinal long tube for interconnecting the transverse long tubes. The upper portion of the framework includes two vertical tubes each extending from a related one of the transverse long tubes, two transverse short tubes each extending from a related one of the vertical tubes, and a longitudinal short tube for interconnecting the transverse short tubes. The first supporting element is connected to the transverse short tubes. The second supporting element is adjustably connected to the first supporting element.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 22, 2010Publication date: March 22, 2012Applicant: ATOMIC ENERGY COUNCIL-INSTITUTE OF NUCLEAR ENERGY RESEARCHInventors: Wen-Fu Chen, Hong-Yih Yeh, Cheng-Dar Lee
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Patent number: 8127759Abstract: Developed is a solar cooker with triangle reflective sides. Above and below are two movable solar reflecting panels that can be adjusted to focus light onto a frying pan using a glass lid, an insulating pad, and a surrounding plastic bag to trap solar light for cooking. The triangle reflective sides are used also to adjust and support the two movable solar reflecting panels via movable pegs. In the corners adjacent to the triangle sides, back reflective plate and reflective floor plate is an invented reflective-tilted-equilateral-triangle-plate with each of the three angles at 60 degrees in all three horizontal and vertical dimensions, to capture and reflect light towards the solar cooking area dishware. At night the entire solar cooker can be folded down to form a storage space. The entire solar cooker is foldable for shipping.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2008Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Inventor: Martin E. Nix
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Publication number: 20120017889Abstract: The invention relates to a housing (80) for a solar absorber module (8) for a solar thermal power plant, comprising a first tapered housing section (81) with a first free end (82) to accommodate a ceramic solar absorber element (9) and a second end (83) with a reduced cross-sectional area compared to the first end (82), and a second housing section (84) with a cross-section substantially constant over its length, wherein the second housing section (84) is linked to the second end (83) of the first housing section (81). According to the invention, the housing (80) is characterized in that a wall (85) provided with a plurality of openings (86) and extending across the entire internal cross-section of the first housing section (81) is arranged in the first tapered housing section (81). The invention further relates to a method for producing such a housing (80) as well as a method for fastening the housing (80) to a support structure (11).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 29, 2010Publication date: January 26, 2012Inventor: Udo Hack
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Publication number: 20120017888Abstract: The present invention is a solar energy device that uses an improved light collector to collect sunlight. The improved light collector is a translucent, and preferably transparent, solid sphere. The light collector transmits sunlight that is incident thereon and emits the light to a focal point on the other side of the sphere. An energy-receiving medium is located at or near the focal point of the emitted light and absorbs energy from the emitted light. The energy-receiving medium uses the energy from the emitted light in accordance with the desired function of the present invention.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 21, 2010Publication date: January 26, 2012Inventor: Jorge A. Garza
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Patent number: 8063349Abstract: A solar heliostat and system are described with various characteristics particularly suitable for concentrating systems with a relatively large number of small heliostats. Other features contribute to high performance, low cost, high durability, and high temperature operation, such as desired for high efficiency thermal power generation.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2008Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Assignee: Brightsource Industries (Israel) Ltd.Inventors: Shmuel Huss, Hagai Huss, Israel Kroizer, Yoel Gilon, Danny Franck, Susan Walzer
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Publication number: 20110259319Abstract: It aims to provide a solar heat collecting apparatus that can efficiently collect energy from solar light. The solar heat collecting apparatus comprises an opened container part 22 that accumulates heat, a closed part 25 that closes the container part 22 and has an opening part 26 to let the collected solar light in, and a light absorbing part 36 that absorbs the solar light dispersed by passing through the opening part 26 so that it is converted into heat.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2009Publication date: October 27, 2011Applicant: Electra Holdings Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takashi Yabe, Yuji Satoh
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Publication number: 20110247679Abstract: A lightweight reflector with a load bearing structure based on a tensile spoke-wheel. The spoke structure is especially compatible with dish parabolic mirrors, but has utility as a carrier structure for any round functional surface, including flat or slightly-curved mirrors used in central tower solar systems, parabolic dishes for radio telescopes and antennas, and for non-concentrating thin film solar panels. There are no radial members loaded in compression. All the spokes pull the rim inwards, and the rim is compressed in the circumferential direction. The imbalance in spoke tension results from the application of load provides the rigidity of the rim in respect to the hub, both for in-plane and out-of-plane forces. Ribs stiffen the spokes to resist wind and gravity, but are not structurally supported by either the hub or the rim. Lightweight reflector tiles match the wheel structure and create the reflective surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2011Publication date: October 13, 2011Inventors: Ben Shelef, Shmuel Erez
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Publication number: 20110232635Abstract: A concentrated solar radiation assembly comprising a housing divided into segments by housing trusses; window blocks positioned within the segments supported by the housing trusses; and, internal trusses positioned on top of the window blocks and within the segments. The assembly may be hermetically sealed, large-scale and refrigerated by water flow within the trusses.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2010Publication date: September 29, 2011Applicants: INTEVEP, S.A., CIEMAT(Centro De Investigaciones Energeticas Medioambientales Y Tecnologicas), ETHZ (Swiss Federal Instituite of Technology)Inventors: Thorsten Denk, Luis Zacarias, Aldo Steinfeld
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Publication number: 20110226232Abstract: A solar energy system including a pedestal defining a longitudinal axis, a frame that is supported by the pedestal and that is rotateable relative to the pedestal about the longitudinal axis, the frame including at least one solar device, and a wind vane operatively connected to the frame to urge the frame relative to the pedestal about the longitudinal axis in response to wind acting on the wind vane.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 18, 2010Publication date: September 22, 2011Inventor: Robert E. Grip
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Publication number: 20110220091Abstract: Images representative of cloud shadows with respect to a field of heliostats can be used to adjust operation of a solar energy system. For example, images of a field of heliostats and shadows produced by the clouds can be obtained. Additionally or alternatively, images of the sky and clouds can be obtained. The images can be analyzed to determine a shading parameter. Based on the shading parameter, an operating parameter of the solar energy system can be changed or maintained. For example, the operating parameter may include aiming directions for one or more of the heliostats. Cloud characteristics in addition to the location of the cloud shadow can be used in determining the shading parameter. Such characteristics can be used in determining if and/or how to change the operating parameter of the solar energy system.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 20, 2011Publication date: September 15, 2011Applicant: BrightSource Industries (Israel), Ltd.Inventor: GIL KROYZER
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Publication number: 20110220095Abstract: This application relates to solar receivers and solar energy concentrators, and windows for use therein. The solar receiver comprises a housing (2) and a window (3) disposed in or on a wall (4) of the housing (2), wherein the window (3) comprises vitreous silica having an OH content of 30 ppm or more by weight. In a prior art solar receiver having a high purity vitreous silica window, the window generally requires cooling if the receiver is operated at temperatures above 800° C., which limits the receiver's efficiency. The solar receiver of this application addresses the problem of the limited efficiency of the prior art receivers by using a window comprising vitreous silica having a relatively high OH content of 30 ppm or more by weight.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2009Publication date: September 15, 2011Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.Inventor: Tim Van Der Graaf
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Publication number: 20110197584Abstract: Provided is a device for supporting a center reflector stably and firmly. The device improves the setting density of heliostats and is capable of reducing the blocking and the shadowing of the beams of light reflected by the heliostats. In a beam down system solar generation device, the center reflector is attached, in a cantilever manner, to a supporting post standing upright. A pylon is provided to stand on the top of the supporting post. A stay member is attached to the pylon and is used for fixing the center reflector. A second stay member is provided to support the supporting post. This second stay member connects: the pylon; a jut extending out from the back side of the supporting post; and a base.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2008Publication date: August 18, 2011Inventors: Kazuaki Ezawa, Hiroo Inoue, Takashi Kawaguchi, Yuzuru Hamada
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Publication number: 20110192394Abstract: A movable solar array and method for capturing solar energy which includes a V-shaped longitudinal support forming a corner of an elongated truss located at each angle of a polygonal axial cross-section where an open web is fixedly attached between each V-shaped longitudinal support extending the length of the elongated truss. An end member is fixedly attached at each end of the support truss and includes a shaft extending longitudinally outwardly from the end member adapted to engage a drive to longitudinally rotate the elongated truss. Solar panels are attached along one face of the elongated truss, and at least one rotatable drive is capable of driving the shafts at the end of the elongated truss to move the solar panels in relation to a change of direction of incoming solar energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2010Publication date: August 11, 2011Applicant: NUCOR CORPORATIONInventor: Bruce F. Brothersen
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Patent number: 7975686Abstract: This invention is a trough solar collector that uses the principles of high leverage in order to produce a lightweight, inexpensive thermal solar collector. The parabolic reflectors are held in proper shape by rigid ribs that are spaced apart along the length of the collector. The structure of the trough is held rigid by a unique sun-tracking system that not only guides a long trough row to point it toward the sun, but also maintains the whole length of the row in rigid configuration. Small-diameter cables are wrapped around a rotatable pipe that extends along the row. The cables extend around circular arches attached to the parabolic ribs that provide high leverage for rotating the troughs. Since the arches rotate in unison, the long trough row is maintained in rotational rigidity. Rather than having heavy concrete foundations and heavy structures to support the troughs, lightweight support posts are placed into the ground, and guy wires maintain the position of the posts.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2009Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Inventor: Melvin L. Prueitt
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Publication number: 20110146668Abstract: A solar fence with a plurality of fence panels, wherein one or more of the fence panels includes one or more solar panels inside the wall of the fence panels. The top or sides of the fence panels include a plurality of optical lenses to receive and collect sun rays. Fiber optic lines are connected to the optical lenses and to the solar panels to transmit the solar rays collected by the optical lenses to the solar panels for storage. Electric lines are connected to the solar panels and to a meter for measuring the amount of electric energy collected and produced by the solar fence.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2009Publication date: June 23, 2011Inventor: Raymond Saluccio
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Publication number: 20110146662Abstract: An integrated alternative energy roofing panel incorporates an array of solar concentrator tubes interconnected with transparent web to form a joined plate supported in frame elements with an attached working fluid manifold. The working fluid in the manifold is operatively in contact with the solar concentrator tubes for transferring heat from the tubes. In one exemplary construction, each of the solar concentrator tubes terminates in a conducting metal sleeve which extends beyond the frame element into the manifold. A safety glass panel is attached to one frame element beneath the joined plate. The joined plate and safety glass panel may be sealed to the frame elements to form a chamber and the chamber may be evacuated. A plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are embedded in the web for supplemental lighting. An array of photovoltaic cells mounted to a top surface of the manifold and a battery are interconnected for powering the LEDs.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2009Publication date: June 23, 2011Applicant: Ecomerit Technologies LLCInventors: James G.P. Dehlsen, James B. Dehlsen, Alex Fleming
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Publication number: 20110132353Abstract: A transportable multi-configurable self-ballasted modular solar power unit has a support frame and a solar module frame hingedly connected to it. A plurality of solar modules are mounted on the solar module frame and a selected angle is chosen to increase the efficiency of the solar modules. Support arms are used to keep the solar module frame at the selected angle. Four trailer jacks are attached to the perimeter of the support frame and are used to raise and lower the unit. The unit is raised and set on a trailer or a wheel assembly is attached. The unit can then be transported to the selected installation site. Once at the site, the trailer jacks are raised until the trailer can be rolled out from under it. The trailer jacks can be adjusted individually if the surface is not level.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2010Publication date: June 9, 2011Applicant: SunPOD,S INC.Inventors: Michael L. Gumm, Daniel Jaeger
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Publication number: 20110088688Abstract: The present invention discloses a support frame for solar energy device, which includes at least two support bodies, and at least two lintels, each of which being provided between the two support bodies. Each of the support bodies and lintels is made of reinforced concrete. Each of the support bodies includes two supporting columns, and a transverse beam fixedly provided between two top ends of the two supporting columns respectively. Two ends of each of the lintels are fixedly provided on a transverse beam of one of the support bodies and a transverse beam of an adjacent support body, respectively. Each of the support bodies further includes a strengthened beam fixedly provided between the two supporting columns. The present invention has a lower cost, corrosion protection, long service life, higher structural strength, good normability, is capable of site pouring and adapted for any amount of solar energy devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2010Publication date: April 21, 2011Inventors: Xiaolin Sha, Yan Sha
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Publication number: 20110088684Abstract: The invention discloses a solar concentrator that offers a low-cost option dimensioned for supplying energy to a household. The rays of the sun are reflected and concentrated to a point focus by a combination of fixed and movable reflectors, and the heat concentrated in that manner is directed to a stationary remote absorber from where it is used to generate energy to supply the house. A plurality of safety stoppers and barriers prevent accidental misdirection of the concentrated beam. The shape and geometric arrangement of the fixed portion of the reflector array is designed so that the average amount of light received by the stationary remote absorber is maximized for all solar positions within the system's working range.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 16, 2009Publication date: April 21, 2011Inventor: Raja Singh Tuli
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Publication number: 20110073104Abstract: Examples and variations of apparatus and methods for concentrating solar radiations with trough solar energy collectors are disclosed. A support assembly for a trough solar energy collector has a plurality of transverse ribs attached to longitudinal rails and end assemblies secured to the rails. End assemblies may attach to longitudinal rails through transverse ribs, and guy wires may span from one of the end sections to the other. Transverse ribs may be formed of two rib sections with semi-parabolic shape. Solar energy collecting panels may be placed on the ribs and secured with cowlings and transverse panel-retaining strips, for instance.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2010Publication date: March 31, 2011Applicant: SOPOGY, INC.Inventors: Kip H. DOPP, Darren T. KIMURA
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Publication number: 20110067691Abstract: A solar panel mounting system that supports field installation of solar panels. The system comprises a carrier for holding a plurality of individual solar panels together as a unit and an attachment structure on the carrier for mounting the carrier to a support structure. The support structure may comprise a plurality of spaced parallel rails. The carrier can be slidably mounted to the spaced parallel rails using the attachment structure provided on the carrier.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Inventors: John Bellacicco, John Hartelius, Henry Cabuhay, Tom Kuster, Michael Monaco, Martin Perkins
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Publication number: 20110023863Abstract: Deployable wings supporting solar collector arrays for mobile structures and associated methods of use are disclosed that provide significant power generation capacity, easy deployment, shaded work areas, and protection for solar collector arrays during transport. Some embodiments include a support surface configured to be hingedly coupled to a vehicle, a plurality of support rails extending away from the support surface to form at least one cavity, a solar collector array coupled to the support surface and within the at least one cavity, and at least one retractable cover configured to selectively cover the at least one cavity.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2010Publication date: February 3, 2011Inventor: Micah F. Andretich
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Publication number: 20110023864Abstract: Compact solar collector arrays with multiple axis adjustability for use with mobile structures, such as trailers, RVs, etc., and temporary support structures and associated methods of use are disclosed that provide significant power generation capacity per roof area, easy deployment, optimum orientation regardless of underlying vehicle or structure orientation, and protection for solar collector arrays during transport. Some embodiments include a plurality of solar collector mounts coupled to a support surface, the plurality of solar collector mounts being capable of changing relative spatial arrangement of each solar collector with respect to at least a neighboring solar collector.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2010Publication date: February 3, 2011Inventor: Micah F. Andretich
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Publication number: 20100319682Abstract: A solar module system includes a self-supporting structure and at least one solar module element or reflector element which can be arranged on the support structure. The support structure includes a plurality of juxtaposed support profiles in the form of self-supporting hollow chamber profiles, which have front parabolic concentrator reflector functional surfaces and solar module functional surfaces on the side facing away from the front. The system is used e.g. for photovoltaic systems outdoors or on buildings.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2007Publication date: December 23, 2010Applicant: Zentrum fuer Sonnenenergie-Und Wasserstoff- Forschung Baden-Wuert-TembergInventor: Fritz Klotz
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Patent number: 7854224Abstract: A solar chimney includes a solar collector which heats air in the chimney, producing updrafts which can be harnessed to perform useful work. The solar collector may be located inside or outside the chimney. The device may include a reservoir for storing a heat transfer fluid, thus enabling the device to be used during both day and night. The solar chimney may be equipped with both internal and external solar collectors, operating in parallel. The solar chimney may also be equipped with multiple external solar collectors, connected in parallel to a reservoir. The solar chimney of the invention provides a convenient and practical way to convert solar energy into electrical power.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2007Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Inventor: Pitaya Yangpichit
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Publication number: 20100294265Abstract: A solar panel mounting system and structure which provides dual axis tracking while only requiring a force to be applied about a single axis. The system can provide desirable results with both actively-powered and passively-powered drive mechanisms. Also provided is a solar panel mounting frame which permits a solar panel to be mounted without requiring additional frame components.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2010Publication date: November 25, 2010Applicant: ZomeworksInventors: Steve Baer, Kevin Tan
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Publication number: 20100282242Abstract: A solar energy collection system includes a primary solar receiver and a secondary solar receiver. The secondary solar receiver generates steam using energy from solar radiation incident thereon. The primary solar receiver receives the generated steam from the secondary solar receiver and superheats the steam using energy from solar radiation incident thereon. A plurality of heliostat-mounted mirrors reflects incident solar radiation onto one of the primary and secondary solar receivers. A controller aims a portion of the heliostat-mounted mirrors at the primary solar receiver such that a predetermined thermal profile is provided on a surface of the primary solar receiver.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2010Publication date: November 11, 2010Applicant: BrightSource Industries (ISRAEL) Ltd.Inventors: Yoel GILON, Israel KROIZER
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Publication number: 20100263709Abstract: The present invention is primarily directed to cost-effective systems for using large reflective elements that track the sun on two axes to concentrate solar energy onto a receiver that can convert the sun's optical energy to a form usable for extensive displacement of combustion of fossil fuels. The structures of the tracker frame, tracking mechanism and tracker supports are co-optimized with the optical elements and the receiver for high efficiency, low cost, and ease of assembly, making moderate and large-scale implementations cost-competitive with fossil fuels for peak power, and, with suitable storage, for base-load power and dispatchable peaking power in sunny locations. Improvement to small-tracker two-axis systems and one-axis tracking systems that focus in two dimensions are also included, as are improvements in systems for space-based solar power.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2009Publication date: October 21, 2010Inventors: Richard Norman, Philippe Dauphin, Frederick de St. Croix
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Publication number: 20100212654Abstract: It includes at least one module with a concave reflecting mirror surface which concentrates the light radiation towards certain devices in order to then obtain electrical or other type of energy. It also includes means for orienting that mirror surface according to the position of the sun. It is characterised in principle in that each module comprises a thin lightweight laminar body with an arched structure which incorporates the concave mirror surface, this laminar body being associated with certain stiffening supports which stabilise and stiffen that arched structure in order to maintain this shape, said structure being supported on some ground with the interposition of guide means by which the arched structure at least tilts towards one side or the other depending on the light sensor or timer which activates a device that positions each module in real time with the required orientation according to the position of the sun.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2008Publication date: August 26, 2010Inventor: José Javier Alejo Trevijano
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Publication number: 20100206301Abstract: A mounting system for supporting solar panel cells above a support surface. The system may have a frame including a plurality of frame sections that are secured to a solar panel cell. At least one of the frame sections may include a pair of walls forming a first channel for receiving an edge portion of the solar panel cell, and a second channel spaced apart from the first channel. The second channel may have a curving inner wall. The at least one frame section may also have a base portion. The mounting system may also include a mounting bracket having a pair of flanges and forming a third channel therebetween. One of the flanges of the third channel may form a curving flange. The curving flange and the second channel of the frame section may cooperatively secure the frame section and the mounting bracket together.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 19, 2010Publication date: August 19, 2010Applicant: JAC Products, Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey M. Aftanas
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Publication number: 20100199977Abstract: A boiler for a solar receiver includes a panel support structure. A boiler stay is operatively connected to the panel support structure. A panel stay is slideably engaged to the boiler stay. A boiler panel is operatively connected to the panel stay with the panel stay being affixed to a plurality of tubes of the panel. The boiler stay and panel support assemblies are configured and adapted to slide with respect to one another to accommodate thermal expansion of the boiler panel. In certain embodiments, a pin connects the boiler stay and the panel stay, wherein the pin is removable for installation and removal of the panel from the support structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2010Publication date: August 12, 2010Applicant: Babcock Power Services, Inc.Inventors: Andrew Plotkin, Russell Ricci, Ivo Slezak
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Publication number: 20100192940Abstract: The present invention relates to a sun tracking sensor unit and a sun tracking apparatus having the same.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2010Publication date: August 5, 2010Inventor: Joo-Pyoung Yoon
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Publication number: 20100175686Abstract: A device for collecting solar energy is disclosed. The collector includes a collecting structure, a reflecting structure and a motor. The collecting structure is composed of a mounting frame and a plurality of collecting panels disposed around the mounting frame. The reflecting structure is composed of a stand and a reflecting board supported by the stand. The motor rotates the collector or reflector for tracingly reflecting sunbeams and collecting solar energy with mobility.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2009Publication date: July 15, 2010Inventor: Yu-Ta Tu
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Publication number: 20100147284Abstract: A solar energy collector apparatus includes a solar collector panel having a parabolic shape, and a base comprising a pair of spaced apart support frames. Each support frame has a parabolic shape corresponding to the parabolic shape of the solar collector panel. Spaced apart rollers are positioned along an upper surface of each support frame to support the solar collector panel. A drive mechanism is coupled to the solar collector panel for rotation thereof. The solar collector panel includes a pair of spaced apart guide channels on an underside thereof for contacting the spaced apart rollers to insure that the solar collector panel rotates squarely with respect to the base.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2009Publication date: June 17, 2010Inventors: DALE E. POLK, SR., Dale E. Polk, JR.
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Publication number: 20100101564Abstract: A shop-assembled solar receiver heat exchanger having an arrangement of heat transfer surfaces and a vertical steam/water separator structurally and fluidically interconnected thereto. A vertical support structure is provided to support the vertical separator and the heat transfer surfaces. The vertical support structure is bottom supported, while the vertical steam/water separator and heat exchanger heat transfer surfaces are top supported from the vertical support structure. The vertical support structure provides structural support and rigidity for the heat exchanger and a means by which the heat exchanger can be picked up and lifted for placement at a desired location. A fabrication/transport/lifting fixture is provided which facilitates fabrication, assembly, transportation and erection of the heat exchanger from the shop to the field. The fixture supports two trunnion shafts attached to the support structure of the receiver. Lifting lugs would be located on the top end of the support structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2009Publication date: April 29, 2010Inventors: STEVEN P. IANNACCHIONE, DENNIS R. SHIFFER, DAVID T. WASYLUK, JASON M. MARSHALL, DAVID L. KRAFT, GEORGE GRANT, KIPLIN C. ALEXANDER, RICKEY A. WILSON, JUSTIN A. PERSINGER, ADAM N. DePIZZO, MELVIN J. ALBRECHT
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Publication number: 20100098599Abstract: Thermochemical processing systems for the production of chemicals using solar (110) or other radiant energy as the heat source for chemical reactions and separations. Radiant energy receivers (310) operating in conjunction with concentrator systems (300), heat exchangers, chemical reactors and chemical separators. Systems and applications include the concentration of radiant energy in support of a moderate- and/or high-temperature, endothermic chemical reaction followed by downstream reactions and separations so that a chemical fuel is produced. Efforts are made to match concentrator types with need; for example, parabolic trough concentrators may be used to produce steam at low- to moderate-temperatures and parabolic dish concentrators may be used to drive moderate- to high-temperature chemical reactions such as methane reforming, and hybrid concentrators (400) may be used to concentrate radiant energy from multiple energy sources.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2008Publication date: April 22, 2010Inventors: John Carlton Mankins, Robert Stottle Wegeng
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Publication number: 20100051019Abstract: In some embodiments, a first solar powered furnace may be fluidically coupled to a second solar powered furnace in a solar powered furnace array by an array interconnect, which may include a first receiver, a second receiver, and an array interconnect stent that is at least partially inserted into each of the first receiver and the second receiver. In some embodiments, the solar powered furnace may include a back pass air channel defined by a duct floor and a solar absorption plate, and a distance between the duct floor and the solar absorption plate and a flow rate of air may be selected such that air flows through the back pass air channel in a laminar flow regime. In some embodiments, the solar powered furnace may include a mounting system including a mounting rail and a mounting channel defined in a back surface of the solar powered furnace.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2009Publication date: March 4, 2010Inventors: Jason W. Edens, Barbara Jean Allen, Sarah Jean Hayden, Graham Scott Wright
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Publication number: 20100000521Abstract: The invention relates to a frame for a plate-shaped solar element. The frame includes a bottom frame element (21) with a first surface (24) and a top frame element (11) with a second surface (14). The second surface (14) is disposed opposite the first surface (24) and is at spaced from the first surface forming a gap that accommodates an edge region of the plate-shaped solar element (31). The first surface and the second surface are each self-adhesive.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 23, 2009Publication date: January 7, 2010Applicant: TESA SEInventors: Thomas GASSNER, Michael Schwertfeger
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Publication number: 20090255529Abstract: A solar collector includes a substrate having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to the upper surface, a sidewall, a transparent cover, and a heat-absorbing layer. The sidewall is arranged on the top surface of the substrate. The transparent cover is disposed on the sidewall opposite to the substrate to form a sealed chamber with the substrate together. The heat-absorbing layer is disposed on the upper surface of the substrate and includes a carbon nanotube structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2009Publication date: October 15, 2009Applicants: Tsinghua University, HON HAI Precision Industry CO., LTD.Inventors: Peng Liu, Pi-Jin Chen, Liang Liu, Kai-Li Jiang, Shou-Shan Fan
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Publication number: 20090249787Abstract: A method is provided for controlling the alignment of a heliostat with respect to a receiver, wherein an image sensor device is arranged on a mirror device of the heliostat, wherein the heliostat is aligned by the image sensor device using image recognition in such a way that a first angle of a first vector pointing towards the sun, relative to a prescribed vector of the mirror device, and a second angle of a second vector pointing towards a prescribed target area of the receiver, relative to the prescribed vector, are in a relationship to each other which is dependent upon the prescribed vector of the mirror device, and wherein images of the sun and the prescribed target area and their position relative to the prescribed vector are determined.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 6, 2009Publication date: October 8, 2009Applicant: Deutsches Zentrum fuer Luft- und Raumfahrt e. V.Inventors: Andreas Pfahl, Reiner Buck, Karsten Rehschuh
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Publication number: 20090250051Abstract: The invention relates to a thin wall header with a variable cross-section for solar absorption panels, manufactured in nickel-based superalloy and formed by a main thin wall body (18) and by a plurality of nozzles (16,21). The header (10) is connected to a series of junction nozzles (16) wherein respective solar absorption tubes (14) are connected, and at least one inlet or outlet nozzle (21) wherein at least a fed tube is connected. The body (18) can have a spindle shape or can be formed by two frustoconical sections joined by the larger base, and can further have a central cylindrical section at the height of the inlet or outlet nozzles (21). It is applicable in the collection of fluids at high temperature, especially in solar panels.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2007Publication date: October 8, 2009Applicant: SENER, INGENIERIA Y SISTEMAS, S.A.Inventor: Jesus Maria Lata Perez
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Publication number: 20090241939Abstract: Solar receivers and particularly to solar receivers having one or more cavities and optionally having absorptivity/reflectivity patterns on surfaces and methods of reflective material application.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2009Publication date: October 1, 2009Inventors: Andrew Heap, Steven Schell, Seyed A. Ebrahimi-Sabet, Gregg Luconi, Quoc Pham, Adam Azarchs, Dan Reznik, Porter Arbogast, Craig Tyner
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Publication number: 20090173334Abstract: An arrangement includes a solar energy receiving device and at least one component in thermal communication with the solar energy receiving device, the at least one component formed from a composite material, the composite material may comprise a matrix of carbon-based fibers, the carbon-based fibers comprising one or more of: mesophase carbon, carbon nanotubes, graphite, graphene and pan carbon. According to a further optional aspect, there is provided a solar energy receiving device comprising a first surface for receiving solar energy incident thereon, and a second opposing surface, the second surface being electrically conductive; at least one heat transport device in direct contact with at least a portion of the second surface, the at least one heat transport device may comprise at least one internal passage and at least one duct; and a heat transport media flowing within the at least one internal passage and at least one duct. Related methods and additional arrangements are also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2008Publication date: July 9, 2009Applicant: SUNRGIInventors: Murthy KRS, Robert S. Block, Allen J. Amaro
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Patent number: 7552727Abstract: A boiler for generating steam has a substantially enclosed housing configured to contain an amount of water to be boiled, the housing having one or more thermally conductive sidewalls which form a substantially enclosed water chamber and a reflection chamber, the reflection chamber including a closed top portion and a opening through which light rays may pass, the opening being vertically disposed below the top portion of the chamber so that the reflection chamber may trap heat, wherein at least one of the thermally conductive sidewalls is disposed so as to divide the water chamber from the reflection chamber. The boiler also include a support structure attached to or integral with the housing, which support structure supports the housing in a substantially fixed position during use of the boiler, and reflecting means for reflecting sunlight through the opening of the reflection chamber and onto a focal point on one or more inner surfaces of the top portion of the reflection chamber.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2007Date of Patent: June 30, 2009Inventor: Floyd E. Matthews, Jr.
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Patent number: 7550054Abstract: A method of manufacturing a mirror for a dish reflector of a system for generating electrical power from solar radiation is disclosed. The method includes the steps of: (a) shaping a blank of a deformable material to have a concave surface that is a required surface profile for a mirror; and (b) glueing, laminating or otherwise adhering together a back surface of a sheet of reflective glass and the concave surface of the shaped blank to form the mirror.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2002Date of Patent: June 23, 2009Assignee: Solar Systems Pty Ltd.Inventor: John Beavis Lasich
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Patent number: 7449158Abstract: An apparatus for thermochemical conversion of solid carbonaceous materials into fluid fuels using a fluid source of oxygen and an external source of concentrated radiation includes a reactor having a wall defining a cavity; a radiation inlet positioned in the wall for passing concentrated radiation into the cavity; and at least one inlet for introducing a fluid reactant flow of a source of oxygen and particles of carbonaceous material into direct exposure to the concentrated radiation in the cavity so as to heat and thermochemically convert the particles into fluid fuel. A process and system are also provided. The fluid source of oxygen is preferably steam and the carbonaceous material is preferably particles of petcoke.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2006Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignees: Intevep, S.A., Ciemat, EthzInventors: Philipp Haueter, Andreas Z'Graggen, Dominic Trommer, Aldo Steinfeld, Manuel Romero, Juan Carlos De Jesus, Domingo Rodriguez, Alfredo Morales, Julian Blanco
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Publication number: 20080236572Abstract: A solar panel, through which a fluid is circulated, includes a transparent central panel, with a number of channels extending through the panel from one end to another. A manifold is attached to each end of the transparent central panel so that distributing chambers within the manifolds direct the fluid to move between adjacent channels within the central panel. The solar panel additionally includes a transparent support structure above the central panel and a lower support structure below the panel. Dark, opaque material below the central panel absorbs heat and warms the fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 21, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventor: Guenter Schaefer
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Patent number: 7380549Abstract: A solar concentrator includes a mirror 24 having a frame 27 connected with a lever 55, a train 36 supporting the frame 27 and the lever 55, a first control cable 28 connected with the frame 27, and a second control cable 30 connected with the lever 55. A first locomotive 35 moves the train along a curvilinear path to keep the mirror 24 opposite the sun. The first control cable 28 controls pitch of the mirror 24 and the second control cable 30 controls yaw of the mirror 24. When a concentrator includes a plurality of mirrors 24 they are preferably controlled collectively by pulling all of the first control cables 28 with one motor to control pitch and by pulling all of the second control cables 30 with one motor to control yaw. Sunlight focused on the receiver 20 preferably boils water to form steam that is transmitted to a turbine connected to a generator for producing electricity.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2006Date of Patent: June 3, 2008Inventor: George D. Ratliff